Mumbai Airport Complete Guide 2026 — Terminals, Airlines, Transport & Tips

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) is India’s second-busiest airport and the primary gateway for millions of travellers every year. Whether you’re flying domestic or catching an international connection, navigating Mumbai Airport can feel overwhelming if you don’t know the layout. This guide covers everything — terminals, airlines, metro access, lounges, duty-free, transport, and insider tips — so your journey starts stress-free.

Mumbai Airport at a Glance

• IATA Code: BOM
• Full Name: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA)
• Location: Sahar, Andheri East, Mumbai, Maharashtra
• Terminals: T1 (domestic) and T2 (domestic + international)
• Operator: Mumbai International Airport Limited (MIAL) / Adani Airport Holdings
• Annual Passengers: ~50 million (pre-pandemic peak)

T1 vs T2 — Which Terminal Is Yours?

This is the most common source of confusion at Mumbai Airport. The two terminals are not physically connected — they are about 4 km apart. Using the wrong terminal can mean missing your flight. Here’s how to figure out which one you need:

Terminal 1 (T1) — Domestic Airlines

T1 handles a significant chunk of Mumbai’s domestic traffic. Airlines operating from T1 include:

• IndiGo — all domestic flights
• SpiceJet — all domestic flights
• Air India Express — select domestic routes

T1 is older and more compact, but it handles departures and arrivals efficiently. It has a dedicated drop-off zone, parking, and basic F&B options post-security.

Terminal 2 (T2) — International + Other Domestic Airlines

T2 is the flagship terminal — a 4.4 lakh sq ft architectural landmark featuring an art wall with over 7,000 works. It handles:

• All international departures and arrivals
• Air India — domestic and international
• Akasa Air — domestic flights
• Vistara (now merged into Air India)
• All foreign carriers

T2 has premium lounges, full duty-free retail, fine dining, and the Pranaam meet-and-greet service.

Inter-Terminal Shuttle — Getting Between T1 and T2

If your journey involves connecting flights across terminals (for example, an international arrival at T2 and a domestic departure from T1), you’ll need the free inter-terminal shuttle bus.

• Frequency: Every 20–30 minutes, 24 hours a day
• Journey time: 15–20 minutes (longer during peak traffic)
• Cost: Free
• Pick-up points: Outside arrivals at both terminals

Allow a minimum of 45–60 minutes for terminal transfers. If you’re carrying heavy baggage, factor in additional time.

Airlines Operating at Mumbai Airport

How to Reach Mumbai Airport

Metro

Mumbai Metro is the most affordable and reliable way to reach the airport — especially during peak morning and evening hours when road traffic can be severe.

• Line 1 (Versova–Andheri–Ghatkopar): Alight at Andheri station. The airport is a 5–7 km auto-rickshaw or taxi ride from here (T1 is closer, T2 is a bit further).
• Line 2A (Dahisar–DN Nagar) and Line 7 (Andheri–Dahisar East): These extend coverage to more suburbs and connect to Line 1.
• A dedicated Airport Metro Station is under construction as part of the expanded network — check the latest updates before your trip.

Taxi and Cab (Ola/Uber)

App-based cabs are the most popular choice for most travellers. Pickup points are designated at both T1 and T2 arrivals. Expect surges during peak hours. Prepaid taxis are also available at the airport taxi stands outside arrivals.

Bus (BEST)

BEST (Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport) operates several routes to the airport from key points across Mumbai. Fares are very low. Useful if you’re on a tight budget, but not recommended if you’re carrying heavy luggage or need precision timing.

Personal Car / Parking

Both T1 and T2 have multi-level car parking. Rates are calculated per hour — budget parking for 6 hours at T2 typically costs ₹150–₹250. Pre-booking parking online via the CSMIA website can save time. Drop-off (without parking) is free for a limited stop duration.

Airport Lounges at Mumbai

Mumbai Airport T2 has some of the best lounge options among Indian airports. Whether you’re travelling economy or business, there’s a lounge accessible to you.

T2 International Side

• Plaza Premium Lounge: One of Asia’s best airport lounge operators. Accessible with Priority Pass, Amex Platinum, Diners Club Black, or a paid entry (walk-in rates apply). Hot meals, showers, recliner chairs, and high-speed Wi-Fi.
• Air India Maharaja Lounge: Exclusive to Air India business class passengers and Star Alliance partners.
• Airline-specific lounges: Emirates First & Business Class Lounge, Qatar Airways lounge, and others for their premium passengers.

T2 Domestic Side

• GVK Lounge: Located post-security on the domestic departure level. Accessible via select credit cards (HDFC Infinia, Axis Magnus, ICICI Emeralde etc.) or Priority Pass.

T1 Lounges

T1 has more limited lounge options compared to T2. The IndiGo 6E Lounge is available for IndiGo passengers with lounge access add-ons. A few smaller third-party lounges are also present and accessible via Priority Pass.

Duty-Free Shopping at Mumbai Airport T2

Mumbai T2’s international duty-free is extensive and well-stocked. Key shopping zones include:

• Arrival Duty-Free: Located just after immigration at the international arrivals. Pick up liquor, chocolates, and perfumes on your way in — no need to carry heavy bags through the flight.
• Departure Duty-Free: Past security on the international departures level. Brands include The Macallan, Chanel, Dior, Ferrero Rocher, and major Indian handicraft shops.
• Price comparison tip: Alcohol and perfumes at duty-free are almost always cheaper than the high street. Electronics are usually not significantly discounted.

Food and Dining at Mumbai Airport

T2 Dining

T2 has one of the widest F&B selections at any Indian airport:

• Pre-security: McDonald’s, Starbucks, Burger King, Café Coffee Day
• Post-security (domestic): Bombay Salad, New York Burrito, Naturals Ice Cream, pizza and South Indian food stalls
• International departures: Chili’s, Wok Express, Mainland China, a dedicated street food zone with vada pav, poha, and misal

T1 Dining

T1 has a smaller F&B selection but covers the essentials: coffee, quick bites, packaged snacks, and a few sit-down options.

Pranaam — Premium Meet-and-Assist at Mumbai Airport

Pranaam is CSMIA’s official concierge service for passengers who want a seamless, hands-off airport experience. Here’s what it covers:

• Departure: Personal assistant from kerb to gate, baggage porters, fast-track check-in, priority security lane, buggy ride to gate
• Arrival: Meet-on-board (for eligible flights), assistance through immigration and baggage claim, escort to your waiting vehicle
• Transit: Full assistance for layover passengers connecting flights
• Cost: Starts at ₹1,500 per person for a basic departure assist package. Premium packages available.
• Booking: Via the CSMIA Pranaam website or third-party concierge services

This service is especially useful for elderly travellers, families with young children, or anyone unfamiliar with a large international terminal.

Security and Check-In Tips

• Carry a valid government-issued photo ID (Aadhaar, passport, voter ID, or driving licence).
• DigiYatra (biometric boarding) is available at T2 — enrol once and skip the paper boarding pass queue.
• Web check-in is available for all major airlines via their apps. Download your boarding pass in advance.
• Laptop and liquids (over 100ml) must be removed and placed in separate trays at security.
• Power banks above 100Wh (27,000 mAh) are not allowed in check-in baggage — carry them in your hand baggage.

Wi-Fi at Mumbai Airport

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout T1 and T2. Connect to the “CSMIA Free Wi-Fi” network, verify via OTP, and you get 45 minutes of free browsing. Unlimited paid Wi-Fi plans are also available at kiosks throughout the terminal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between T1 and T2 at Mumbai Airport?

T1 handles domestic flights operated by IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Air India Express. T2 handles all international flights and domestic flights operated by Air India, Akasa Air, and others. Always check your ticket or booking confirmation to confirm your terminal.

How do I get from T1 to T2 at Mumbai Airport?

Free shuttle buses run between the terminals 24 hours a day. The ride takes roughly 15–20 minutes. Allow at least 45 minutes if you have a connecting flight across terminals.

Is there a metro to Mumbai Airport?

Mumbai Metro Line 1 connects to Andheri station, about 5 km from T1. From there, take an auto or cab to the airport. A dedicated airport metro station is planned as part of future metro expansion.

Which lounges are available at Mumbai Airport T2?

T2 has Plaza Premium Lounge (international side), GVK Lounge (domestic side), Air India Maharaja Lounge, and airline-specific lounges. Most are accessible via Priority Pass, premium credit cards, or paid walk-in entry.

How early should I arrive at Mumbai Airport?

For domestic flights, arrive at least 2 hours before departure. For international flights, arrive 3 hours before. During peak hours (morning 5–9 AM and evening 6–10 PM), add an extra 30 minutes for traffic and queues.

What is Pranaam service at Mumbai Airport?

Pranaam is CSMIA’s premium meet-and-assist service offering porter help, fast-track security, buggy rides, and a personal concierge from kerb to gate. Packages start at ₹1,500 per person and can be pre-booked online.